Uncertainty in Pakistan as elections face delay

Euronews

Pakistan’s elections now look increasingly likely to be postponed. Despite all opposition parties calling for the vote to go ahead as scheduled, the Electoral Commission said the security situation made it practically impossible to hold the contest next week.

Commission spokesman Kunwar Dilshad insisted all parties will be consulted before any decision is reached. He said the Commission was studying reports from all Pakistan’s provincial governments.

All sides fear a delay could spark a return of the violence which raged across the country following the assassination of Benazir Bhutto. The uncertainty dominated this morning’s front pages in Pakistan, with many headlines warning of renewed violence.

Calm returned to the streets, although the atmosphere was tense and volatile. President Musharraf will address the nation tomorrow, six days after the murder of his chief political rival.